Philadelphia is internationally known for its fine dining restaurants and famous sandwiches, but there's more to this city than Zahav and DiNic's. Locals know that if you want a memorable experience, you're never far from one of the wackiest restaurants in Philadelphia, where you'll be sure to make friends and have the time of your life. Whether you're looking for a waiter to sing opera while you dine or a chance to play with plastic frogs and spinning tops, you can find your favorite quirky spot in this city. Check out some of my favorite off-the-wall spots below!
1. Mad Rex
This apocalypse-themed restaurant offers delicious food with a twist. For example, you'll have to cook your steak on hot stones... as if you were fending for yourself as a survivor of the end of the world! Mad Rex also offers a fun virtual reality lounge where you can experience thrilling VR scenarios. Address: 1000 Frankford Ave St. 1, Philadelphia, PA 19125
2. Victor Cafe
South Philly's Victor Cafe has been music lovers' favorite spot for decades. It began as a gramophone shop in the early 1900s, transitioned to a restaurant when Prohibition ended, and in the late 1970s, an opera student who was a waiter began singing during his shifts. The restaurant now offers live opera every single day while you enjoy fantastic homemade Italian dishes.Address: 1303 Dickinson St., Philadelphia, PA
3. Tattooed Mom
This quirky South Street bar is an essential spot for any Philadelphian looking for something a little unusual. Join them for arts and crafts, play with the jumping frogs and spinning tops on your table, sip creative cocktails like a Cotton Candy Old Fashioned (which is delicious, by the way) and snack on tasty fried bar food.Address: 530 South St., Philadelphia, PA
4. Pod
Pod is a futuristic sushi/fusion restaurant that's been making headlines for their unique decor and delicious fare. You'll enjoy the colorful atmosphere and a tasty meal in their one-of-a-kind dining room, and their creative cocktails make this a perfect happy hour stop. You can join them for sushi classes on Wednesday and Thursday - just be sure to make a reservation!Address: 3636 Sansom St., Philadelphia, PA
5. Graffiti Bar at Sampan
Sampan's quirky year round, outdoor Graffiti Bar might be the most unique happy hour spot in the city. Walk down a narrow (and somewhat sketchy) alley covered in graffiti before you'll find it opens up to a backyard bar - also covered in graffiti. The bar food is anything but average (pan-asian small plates!) and makes up for the hard to find location.Address: 124 S 13th St., Philadelphia, PA
6. Pizza Brain
The country's first pizza museum is right here in Philly! Browse the largest collection of memorabilia - everything from movie posters to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle figurines - while you wait for a delicious, gourmet slice. It's BYOB, so bring along your favorite wine pairing or craft brew.Address: 2313 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA
7. City Tavern
Whoever says time travel isn't real hasn't been to City Tavern. Enjoy a colonial meal at this historic location alongside Benjamin Franklin and other founding fathers who stop by to enjoy a modern brew. The meals here are crafted from old recipes saved by the Library of Congress, and you'll really feel like you've stepped back in time.Address: 138 S 2nd St., Philadelphia, PA
These unique places are some of the top spots to dine in Philadelphia, and they should be on your list for the year! While you're dining at the wackiest restaurants in Philadelphia, you might want to plan a day to visit some of the 9 Weirdest Places You Can Possibly Go In Philadelphia, to really get your fix of our strange city.
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